Val Thorens, France
Opened
1971
Price
$$$
Rated for
Design Wellness SocialOutside the door
The house
BeaumierRetro alpine lodge
The lodge runs on 1970s ski energy, with direct piste access by day and terrace DJ sets by night.
“Live your French Alps dreams at the ski-in, ski-out lodge Le Val Thorens.”
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
Prudently, they retained the grand central atrium from an earlier incarnation, tying the space together with a darker palette, clean lines, and an earth-toned smattering of contemporary chairs and sofas.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Place de l'Église sits right outside, putting village restaurants steps away and the Three Valleys slopes at the doorstep.
The rooms
Every room opens onto a private balcony overlooking the pistes, with interiors finished in brushed wood and warm wool.
The indoor pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The indoor pool looks out through arched windows to snowy pistes, with white loungers lining a stone wall.
The spa and gym
Spa cabins host botanical Maison Caulières rituals, and the gym uses curved wooden Nohrd machines.
At the table
La Fondue serves regional Savoyard cheeses around curved leather booths, and Le 1971 pours drinks at the timber bar.
How it began
The property was a pioneer when the high-altitude resort opened in 1971, and still keeps its original central atrium.
Val Thorens
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.